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Distance Learning ID Card

What is the Distance Learning ID Card?

The Distance Learning ID Card is the official non-picture ID card available to students enrolled in UMass Amherst distance learning degree programs. Its sole purpose is to assist in proving active student status. Because this card does not include a photo, it needs to be used in conjunction with some form of official picture identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.

The information on the Distance Learning ID Card includes the student’s:

Full Name

8-Digit Campus ID Number

15-Digit Library Barcode Number

Expected Graduation Date

How do I Qualify?

To qualify for a Distance Learning ID Card you must be an active student enrolled in either a UMass Amherst distance learning degree program, or University Without Walls with an expected graduation date.

How do I Purchase a Card?

To request your Distance Learning ID Card, fill out a Distance Learning ID Card Request Form, print it, sign it, and mail it to the UCard Office along with a check for $30 made out to the UMass UCard Office. Once the UCard Office receives your completed request form and check, your Distance Learning ID Card will be mailed to you. Cards typically arrive within a few weeks, but it sometimes takes as much as 4-6 weeks to reach mailing addresses outside the United States.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my Distance Learning ID Card is lost, stolen, or damaged?

If you need a replacement card, simply follow the same procedures you would for getting your initial Distance Learning ID Card. Please complete a Distance Learning ID Card Request Form,, and indicate that you are requesting a replacement card. The cost for a replacement card is also $30.

What if my expected graduation date has been extended?

The date printed on your initial card was the expected graduation date at the time the card was printed. If your expected graduation date has been extended and you would like a new Distance Learning ID Card with your new graduation date, then follow the same procedures you would for getting your initial Distance Learning ID Card. Please complete a Distance Learning ID Card Request Form,, and indicate that you are requesting a new card with an updated expected graduation date. The cost for this card is also $30.

How does a Distance Learning ID Card differ from a UCard?

The UCard is the official UMass Amherst campus student ID card. The main difference between the two cards is that the UCard is designed to be a stand-alone ID card, and includes an official photo taken at the UCard Office. The UCard also includes technology that provides access to a number of on-campus services, which the Distance Learning ID Card does not.

As a Distance Learning student, can I get a UCard?

Yes, provided that you come to campus to have your photo taken and pick up your card in person. Please note that the UCard Office does not mail UCards. If you already purchased a Distance Learning ID card and come to campus at some later date, you can drop by the UCard Office and trade in your current Distance Learning ID Card for a UCard at no additional cost.